Currents is an alternative rock band that formed in 2015. The band was started by lead singer and guitarist Johnny West in Los Angeles, California. Since their formation, Currents has released 2 EPs and 2 full-length albums, establishing their melodic metalcore sound fused with pop punk and electronic influences.
Band History
Currents was formed in 2015 by vocalist Johnny West after his previous band Witness the End disbanded. Seeking a new musical direction, West recruited guitarists Chris Wiseman and David Douglas, bassist Kyle Miller, and drummer Ryan Castaldi to form Currents. The group began writing and recording songs in West’s bedroom and self-produced their first EP, Life//Lost, which they released independently in 2015. It showcased the band’s mix of screaming metal vocals and catchy choruses.
After playing local shows, Currents gained some momentum and signed to SharpTone Records in 2016. They released their second EP, The Place I Feel Safest, that year. It gave audiences a taste of their radio-friendly post-hardcore sound. The EP’s single “Forget Me” also started receiving airplay on satellite radio’s Octane channel.
Currents’ debut full-length album, The Way It Ends, arrived in 2018. It marked their first release on SharpTone and helped establish Currents in the metalcore scene. Songs like “Better Days” and “How I Fall Apart” paired emotional choruses with breakdowns and piercing screams. After release, Currents spent time on the road supporting bands like The Plot In You and Crown the Empire.
Musical Style
Currents play a blend of metalcore, post-hardcore, electronic music, and pop punk. They combine the heavy distortion and screams of metalcore with catchy vocal melodies and synthesizers. Some songs also have pop punk-style choruses. Their influences range from bands like Underoath and Bring Me the Horizon to artists like Justin Timberlake and The Weeknd.
Vocalist Johnny West performs melodic singing and guttural screaming. He cites Underoath screamer Spencer Chamberlain as a major influence. The guitars alternate between heavy distorted riffs and bright melodic leads. Creating contrast is important to the band’s sound. As West told Alternative Press, “I want people to feel like they just got punched in the face and then hugged.”
While Currents’ early work stayed within metalcore, their style has expanded over time. Their 2020 album The Way It Ends weaved in more electronic and pop elements. Songs like “Monster” and “Poverty of Self” featured synthesizers, samples, and auto-tuned vocals. This signaled a shift toward a more radio-friendly/mainstream sound.
Lyrical Themes
Currents addresses personal struggle and adversity in their lyrics. Many songs discuss depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. Tracks like “Shattered” and “Forget Me” wrestle with loneliness and isolation. Others confront toxic relationships and betrayal from loved ones. However, Currents balances the dark subject matter with uplifting messages of resilience. There is often a light at the end of the tunnel.
In an interview with New Noise Magazine, vocalist Johnny West explained his openness about mental health:
“I’m pretty transparent when it comes to my mental health and my experiences with suicide and depression…I want people to know they’re not alone. There’s always a way out of the dark.”
While the lyrics stem from members’ personal experiences, the goal is making listeners dealing with similar issues feel less alone. Currents aims to be a source of support through their relatable themes.
Band Members
Currents has maintained much of its original lineup since forming in 2015. The group currently consists of:
- Johnny West – Lead vocals
- Chris Wiseman – Guitar, backing vocals
- David Douglas – Guitar
- Kyle Miller – Bass, backing vocals
- Ryan Castaldi – Drums
Founding member Johnny West handles lead vocal duties and is considered the frontman. His melodic singing and screaming contrast provide the band’s dynamic. Rhythm guitarist Chris Wiseman contributes backing vocals during sung choruses.
Both guitarists, Chris Wiseman and David Douglas, handle the heavy riffing and technical solos. Bassist Kyle Miller holds down the low end while also providing occasional backing vocals. Drummer Ryan Castaldi drives the rhythms and breakdowns.
Concerts and Tours
Currents are known for their intense live shows reflecting the raw energy of their recordings. They often tour North America supporting similar metalcore and post-hardcore acts. Some of their past and upcoming tours include:
- The Way It Ends North American Tour with Too Close to Touch (2018)
- The Illusion of Safety Tour with Kingdom of Giants (2019)
- The Reimagined Tour with The Word Alive, We Came as Romans (2020)
- Co-headlining tour with Make Them Suffer (Fall 2022)
During concerts, fans can expect non-stop moshing and crowd surfing, especially during breakdowns. Johnny West’s live screaming reaches new intensities. At certain shows, the band has even performed acoustic renditions of their singles. Off stage, Currents members often hang out at the merch table meeting fans.
Reception
Currents have received positive reviews, especially for their energizing live shows. The MetalSucks review of a 2018 New York show praised Johnny West’s “insane” vocals and the band’s sequencing of melodic singing and harsh screaming.
Their album The Way It Ends also earned an 8/10 score from Deadpress for its catchy choruses and heavy guitar riffs. Other critics have complimented Currents’ lyrics covering mental health issues. Johnny West’s relatable themes have helped build a dedicated fanbase.
While Currents has remained primarily an underground metalcore act, they gained some mainstream rock radio airplay with their 2020 single “Poverty of Self.” Fans appreciate the band’s continued experimentation and evolution.
Legacy and Influence
Although a relatively young band, Currents have made an impact on the metalcore scene in just a few years. They’ve helped push the genre forward by blending radio-friendly elements like pop melodies and electronics with pummeling guitar riffs.
Tracks like “Better Days” and “Forget Me” exemplify their ability to write catchy hooks that stick in your head. Johnny West’s dynamic vocal approach has influenced other young metalcore singers. His lyrics speaking honestly about mental illness have resonated with many fans.
Currents also represent the changing identity of metalcore and post-hardcore. Their polished mix of heaviness and accessibility reflects metal’s creep into the mainstream. They may inspire more crossover between aggressive rock and pop music.
The Future
Currents show no signs of slowing down. They continue touring heavily and working on new material in the studio. Their next album promises to expand on their melodic metalcore sound. With a devoted fanbase behind them, Currents have become a staple on the scene.
Johnny West’s songwriting skills also point toward mainstream success. Their singles “Forget Me” and “Poverty of Self” hint at alternative radio airplay potential. While staying heavy, incorporating poppier hooks and electronic beats could help Currents crossover to a wider audience.
Regardless of whether they achieve chart success, Currents have already impacted many fans with their relatable lyrics. They provide an outlet for listeners who may feel alone in their mental health struggles. This supportive community will keep inspiring the band’s music and live shows.
Conclusion
Currents have quickly risen within the world of metalcore through their blend of crushing breakdowns, infectious melodies, and emotionally resonating lyrics. While rooted in metal and hardcore, they’ve branched out into pop, punk, and electronic influences. This sonic fusion has allowed Currents to forge their own take on contemporary post-hardcore.
From their start playing West’s small bedroom in LA, Currents have built a devoted fanbase. They continue touring extensively and putting out new music reflecting their personal experiences. With their energetic live shows and relatable themes, Currents provide more than just music. They represent a supportive community that helps listeners know they aren’t alone.